Wheelchair docking system and method thereof

ABSTRACT

A wheelchair docking system including a frame having an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion being movable relative to the lower portion between a lowered position and a raised position. A coupler mechanism engages a wheelchair during a docking operation. The system also includes a first latching mechanism being movable between a retracted position and a latching position such that the first latching mechanism is spaced from the coupler mechanism. A second latching mechanism moves the upper portion of the frame between its lowered position and raised position. The first latching mechanism is partially retracted by a wheelchair during the docking operation, and the first latching mechanism is biased to its latching position when the coupler mechanism engages the wheelchair.

CROSS REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

The present disclosure is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 16/909,243, filed Jun. 23, 2020, entitled “Wheelchair Docking Systemand method Thereof,” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/866,064, filed Jun. 25, 2019, entitled“Wheelchair Docking System and Method Thereof,” the disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present application relates to a passenger vehicle for transportingone or more passengers, and more particularly to a docking system forreleasably coupling a wheelchair to a floor in a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

Automobile manufacturers do not currently mass-produce passenger motorvehicles specifically designed to transport passengers having physicallimitations, either as a driver or as a non-driving passenger.Consequently, mass-produced passenger vehicles are modified, orretrofitted, by a number of aftermarket companies dedicated to supplyingvehicles to physically limited passengers. Such vehicles can be modifiedby removing certain parts or structures within a vehicle and replacingthose parts with parts specifically designed to accommodate thephysically limited passenger. For example, in one configuration, a vanor bus is retrofitted with a ramp to enable a physically limitedindividual using a wheelchair to enter and exit the vehicle without theassistance of another individual.

Other known products for retrofitting a vehicle, such as a van, bus,sport-utility vehicle, or motor coach, include wheel chair lifts, liftplatforms, and lowered floor surfaces. In some instances, a floor of anoriginal equipment manufacturer (OEM) vehicle is lowered or otherwisemodified to accommodate an entry and exit of the physically limitedindividual through a side door or entrance of the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In a first embodiment of the present disclosure, a wheelchair dockingsystem for being coupled to a floor includes a frame having an upperportion and a lower portion, the upper portion being movable relative tothe lower portion between a lowered position and a raised position; acoupler mechanism configured to engage a wheelchair during a dockingoperation, the coupler mechanism being positioned on the upper portion;a first latching mechanism being movable between a retracted positionand a latching position, the first latching mechanism spaced from thecoupler mechanism; and a second latching mechanism for moving the upperportion of the frame between its lowered position and raised position;wherein, the first latching mechanism is partially retracted by awheelchair during the docking operation; wherein, the first latchingmechanism is biased to its latching position when the coupler mechanismengages the wheelchair.

In a first example of this embodiment, the first latching mechanism isbiased to its latching position by a spring. In a second example, thefirst latching mechanism comprises a locking pin. In a third example, anactuator is coupled to the locking pin, the actuator being operablyactuated between an extended position and a retracted position to movethe locking pin between its latching position and its retractedposition.

In a fourth example, a first scissor assembly is operably coupledbetween the upper portion and the lower portion; and a second scissorassembly operable coupled between the upper portion and the lowerportion, the second scissor assembly being spaced longitudinally fromthe first scissor assembly. In a fifth example, the first scissorassembly and the second scissor assembly each includes a first leg and asecond leg, the first leg and second leg being coupled to one anothervia a connection pin. In a sixth example, the first leg is disposedoutwardly of the second leg.

In a seventh example, the first leg is coupled to an external locationof the upper portion and an internal location of the bottom portion; thesecond leg is coupled to an internal location of the upper and lowerportions. In an eighth example, one end of the first leg is affixed tothe lower portion and an opposite end is slidably coupled to the upperportion; one end of the second leg is affixed to the upper portion andan opposite end is slidably coupled to the lower portion. In a ninthexample, the second leg of the first scissor assembly is coupled to thesecond leg of the second scissor assembly via a longitudinal member.

In a tenth example, the first or second scissor assembly is coupled to across member. In an eleventh example, an actuator is coupled to thecross member, the actuator being operably actuated between an extendedposition and a retracted position to move the cross memberlongitudinally; wherein, as the cross member moves longitudinally, theupper portion of the frame moves between its lowered position and raisedposition.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a wheelchair dockingsystem for being coupled to a floor includes a frame having an upperportion and a lower portion, the upper portion being movable relative tothe lower portion between a lowered position and a raised position; acoupler mechanism configured to engage a wheelchair during a dockingoperation, the coupler mechanism being positioned on the upper portion;a first latching mechanism being movable between a retracted positionand a latching position, the first latching mechanism spaced from thecoupler mechanism; a second latching mechanism for moving the upperportion of the frame between its lowered position and raised position; afirst release mechanism for operably controlling movement of the firstlatching mechanism; and a second release mechanism for operablycontrolling the second latching mechanism to move the upper portion fromits lowered position to its raised position.

In one example of this embodiment, an actuator is coupled to the firstlatching mechanism, the actuator being operably actuated between anextended position and a retracted position to move the first latchingmechanism between its latching position and its retracted position. In asecond example, the first release mechanism includes a user control forcommunicating with a controller, the controller operably actuating theactuator between its extended and retracted positions; a plate coupledto the first latching mechanism via a pin, the plate being coupled tothe actuator; a spring for biasing the first latching mechanism to itslatching position; wherein, upon receiving a command from the usercontrol to enable the first release mechanism, the controller operablyactuates the actuator which moves the plate for compressing the spring;wherein, as the spring compresses, the first latching mechanism movesfrom its latching position to its retracted position.

In another example, the first latching mechanism and the second latchingmechanism comprise manually-operable cables. In a further example, thesecond release mechanism includes a cable operably coupled to a platehaving a slot defined therein; a pin disposed within the slot formovement therein from a first position to a second position; an actuatorfor operably controlling the upper portion between its lowered positionand its raised position, the actuator comprising a rod operably coupledto the pin; wherein, in the lowered position, the pin is disposed at afirst end of the slot and the actuator is in a retracted position;wherein, as the cable is pulled, the pin moves from the first end to asecond end of the slot, where movement of the pin from the first end tothe second end induces the rod to extend in a longitudinal direction;further wherein, movement of the rod in the longitudinal directioninduces the upper portion to move from its lowered position to itsraised position.

In yet another example, the system includes a first scissor assemblyoperably coupled between the upper portion and the lower portion; and asecond scissor assembly operable coupled between the upper portion andthe lower portion, the second scissor assembly being spacedlongitudinally from the first scissor assembly; wherein, as the actuatormoves from its retracted position to an extended position, the first andsecond scissor assemblies induce the movement of the upper portion fromits lowered position to its raised position.

In a further embodiment of the present disclosure, a wheelchair dockingsystem for being coupled to a floor includes a frame having an upperportion and a lower portion, the upper portion being movable relative tothe lower portion between a lowered position and a raised position; acoupler mechanism configured to engage a wheelchair during a dockingoperation, the coupler mechanism being positioned on the upper portion;a first latching mechanism being movable between a retracted positionand a latching position, the first latching mechanism spaced from thecoupler mechanism; a second latching mechanism for moving the upperportion of the frame between its lowered position and raised position; afirst tether assembly comprising a first tether strap coupled at one endto the lower portion and at an opposite end to the upper portion, thefirst tether assembly positioned at a rear end of the frame; and asecond tether assembly comprising a second tether strap coupled at oneend to the lower portion and at an opposite end to the upper portion,the second tether assembly positioned at a front end of the frame.

In an example of this embodiment, the system may include a bracketmounted to the lower portion of the frame; and a pin coupled to themounting bracket; wherein, the first tether strap is coupled to the pinat the one end.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure and the manner ofobtaining them will become more apparent and the disclosure itself willbe better understood by reference to the following description of theembodiments of the disclosure, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front view of a powered wheelchair and docking system in apassenger vehicle;

FIG. 2 is a partial exploded and perspective view of the wheelchair anddocking system of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a wheelchair docking system and tracksystem for a passenger vehicle in a first configuration;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a wheelchair docking system and tracksystem for a passenger vehicle in a second configuration;

FIG. 4A is a side view of the wheelchair docking system in the firstconfiguration of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4B is a side view of the wheelchair docking system in the secondconfiguration of FIG. 3B;

FIG. 5A is a side cross-sectional view of the wheelchair docking systemin the second configuration;

FIG. 5B is another side cross-sectional view of the wheelchair dockingsystem in the second configuration;

FIG. 6 is a partial bottom perspective view of the wheelchair dockingsystem;

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the wheelchair docking system;

FIG. 8 is another bottom view of the wheelchair docking system;

FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the wheelchairdocking system and track system;

FIG. 9A is a partial perspective view of a release mechanism foradjusting the wheelchair docking system relative to the track system;

FIG. 10 is a partial exploded perspective view of the portion of thewheelchair docking system and track system of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a control system for controlling the dockingsystem;

FIG. 12 is a partial exploded and perspective view of another embodimentof a wheelchair docking system; and

FIG. 13 is a top view of the wheelchair docking system of FIG. 12 with atop portion thereof removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the preciseforms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, theembodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the artmay appreciate and understand the principles and practices of thepresent disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1 of the present disclosure, a wheelchair 100 isdepicted. The wheelchair 100 may include a frame 102 supported by one ormore wheels 104. A brake or anti-tilt/tip mechanism 106 may be locatedat one or more wheels 104 for slowing down or keeping the wheels 104from turning, if necessary. The wheelchair 100 may be a poweredwheelchair or a manually-operated wheelchair. Any type of wheelchair 100is applicable to the present disclosure.

In FIG. 1 , the wheelchair 100 is shown located in an interior of avehicle which has a vehicle floor 108. The vehicle floor 108 may be theoriginal OEM vehicle floor, or it may be a modified vehicle floor toaccommodate a ramp or wheelchair lift assembly. In any event, thewheelchair 100 may be maneuvered such that the physically limitedindividual operating or positioned in the wheelchair may be positionedin any location of the vehicle, including at the driver's position ofthe vehicle.

In conventional vehicle arrangements, a physically limited individualmay drive the vehicle so long as the wheelchair is properly latched orconnected to the vehicle floor in at least one or two manners. Mostconventional wheelchairs therefore are designed to include a bolt orother bolt-like feature connected to a bottom of the chair andprotruding downward toward the floor. The bolt may then be received by aconventional docking system which is bolted through to the floor. Theconventional docking system has a mechanism which receives and latchesto the bolt, thereby holding the wheelchair to the vehicle floor.Additional mechanisms may be used to further support and fasten thewheelchair to the vehicle floor.

The conventional wheelchair, however, presents many problems. First, thebolt protrudes downwardly from the wheelchair and leaves very littleclearance between the floor and the bolt. Thus, the bolt can oftencontact objects and the like that the wheelchair would otherwise clear.When the bolt does contact an object, it can cause the wheelchair to tipforward or rearward, or become obstructed with. Alternatively, theobject may be dragged by the bolt until it can be cleared fromunderneath the wheelchair. In either case, it is disadvantageous to havea bolt protruding downwardly from the wheelchair and reducing theclearance between the wheelchair and floor.

In the present disclosure, an improved docking system 112 allows for thewheelchair 100 to have greater clearance between it and the floor 108.Moreover, the docking system 112 includes a first latching mechanism forcoupling to a coupling device 110 on the wheelchair 100, and a secondlatching mechanism for coupling the wheelchair 100 to the vehicle floor108 and preventing it from tilting to the left or right as the vehiclemakes a turn. Thus, the present disclosure provides a better connectionbetween the wheelchair 100 and the vehicle floor 108, and one which issafer over conventional docking systems. Further, the present disclosureprovides a track system 114 which allows the docking system 112 to beadjusted longitudinally along the vehicle floor 108 for different sizedpassengers.

In FIG. 2 , for example, the bottom portion of the wheelchair 100 isbetter shown. Here, the wheelchair 100 has a bottom surface 116 to whichthe coupling device 110 is connected via one or more fasteners. Thecoupling device 110 may be a substantially U-shaped bracket 200 formedby a first leg 202 and a second leg 204. The first and second legs arespaced from one another to define an opening 206 therebetween. In FIG. 2, the opening 206 is oriented towards a front end 208 of the wheelchair100 rather than a rear end 210.

The opening 206 in the bracket 200 is configured to engage with thedocking system 112. The docking system 112 may include a frame 216 and acoupler mechanism 218 as shown in FIG. 2 . The coupler mechanism 218 maycomprise a neck portion 402 (FIG. 4 ) that extends upwardly from theframe 216 and terminates at a disk-shaped top portion 222. As thewheelchair 100 is moved into engagement with the docking system 212, thebracket 200 comes into contact with the coupler mechanism 218. Inparticular, the coupler mechanism 218 is received within the opening 206of the coupling device 110, and the first leg 202 and second leg 204 arereceived within a space 400 (FIG. 4A-B) defined between the frame 216 ofthe docking system 112 and the disk-shaped top portion 222 of thecoupler mechanism 218. In the engaged position, the first leg 202 andsecond leg 204 may be in close proximity or contact with the neckportion 402 of the coupler mechanism 218.

To maintain the wheelchair 100 engaged with the docking system 112, thedocking system 112 may further include a retractable locking pin 224.The locking pin 224 may have an angled surface which comes into contactwith a first surface 226 of the bracket 200 causing the locking pin 224to be pushed downwardly into an opening. Once the bracket 200 clears thelocking pin 224, a spring 512 (FIG. 5 ) may bias the locking pin 224 toits upward position of FIG. 2 . In the upward position, the bracket 200is retained between the coupler mechanism 218 and the locking pin 224.This connection between the wheelchair 100 and docking system 112 mayestablish a first of at least two latching mechanisms of the presentdisclosure.

The aforementioned track system 114 of the present disclosure is alsoshown in FIG. 2 . Here, the track system 114 may include a first track212 and a second track 214. The docking system 112 may be movablycoupled to the first and second tracks, which is shown in greater detailin FIGS. 9 and 10 .

In FIG. 9 , for example, a lower portion 302 of the frame 216 of thedocking system 112 is shown. Here, a flange 910 may protrude rearwardlyfrom the lower portion 302 as shown. The docking system 112 spans the agap defined between the first track 212 and second track 214. In someinstances, the gap therebetween may be different or adjustable dependingupon the vehicle. Thus, to accommodate different gaps between the firstand second tracks, the flange 910 may include a plurality of openings1004 (FIG. 10 ) to adjustably couple the docking system 112 to the tracksystem 114.

The docking system 112 may include a bottom plate or panel 1006 whichdefine a plurality of openings 1008 therein as well. The plurality ofopenings 1008 are also to accommodate different gaps between the firstand second tracks.

Each of the tracks may include a body that has a bottom portion 1020 anda top portion 1022. The top portion 1022 may have an outer lip thatextends outwardly on both sides, as shown in FIG. 10 . Moreover, eachtrack defines a plurality of receptacles 1000 configured to receive thedocking system 112. In FIG. 9 , for example, the plurality ofreceptacles 1000 may include a first receptacle 902, a second receptacle904, a third receptacle 906, a fourth receptacle 908, and so forth. Eachof the plurality of receptacles 1000 is equally spaced from an adjacentreceptacle along each longitudinal track. Further, a narrower channel1024 connects each adjacent receptacle to another receptacle, as shownin FIG. 10 . The channel 1024 may extend from a first end of each track212, 214 to an opposite end thereof.

The docking system 112 may be movably coupled to the track system 114via an adjustable latch 900. In FIGS. 9 and 9A, the adjustable latch 900may include a body 918 that defines an opening 1002 for receiving afastener 916. In FIG. 10 , the fastener 916 may fit through one of theplurality of openings 1004 in the flange 910 and further coupled to thebody 918. For instance, the body 918 may include internal threads towhich the fastener 916 may be coupled. The fastener 916 may couple tothe body 918 in any conventional manner.

The adjustable latch 900 may include a tab portion 912 which may beslidable in an upward direction 914 as shown in FIG. 9A. As the tabportion 912 is moved in the upward direction 914, it may be releasedfrom being disposed in one of the plurality of receptacles 1000. As aresult, the adjustable latch 900 can be used to move the docking system112 in a longitudinal direction 1026 relative to the track system 114.Moreover, as the docking system 112 is moved, a first post 1016 and asecond post 1018 on each adjustable latch 900 may slide through thenarrow channel 1024 until the tab 912 is repositioned in a differentreceptacle.

The adjustable latch 900 may be located on the rear of the dockingsystem 112. At the front of the docking system, a pair of retaining pinsmay be engaged with the first track 212 and second track 214. Eachretaining pin may include a neck portion 1014 and a retaining end 1012.A nut 1010 or other fastener may be threadedly coupled to the neckportion 1014 of each retaining pin. Thus, the retaining pin is coupledto the bottom panel 1006 of the docking system. The retaining pin,unlike the adjustable latch 900, remain coupled to the docking systemand may slide in the longitudinal direction 1026 through the channel1024 as the docking system 112 is adjusted.

Referring now to FIG. 3A, the docking system 112 is shown coupled to thetrack system 114. The docking system 112 may include a top portion 300and a bottom portion 302. The bottom portion 302 has been described withrespect to FIGS. 9-10 above and include the bottom panel 1006 and flange910. The top portion 300 forms part of the frame 216 to which thecoupler mechanism 218 and locking pin 224 are connected. In FIG. 3A, thedocking system 112 is shown in its lowered position 308, whereas in FIG.3B the docking system 112 is in its raised position 338. The dockingsystem 112 is in its raised position 338 when it is not engaged with thewheelchair 100.

The docking system 112 includes a switch 304 for detecting the presenceof the bracket 200 and wheelchair 100. A wire or other means mayelectrically couple the switch 304 to a controller 1102 (FIG. 11 ) forcommunicating with the driver or physically limited individual that thebracket 200 is coupled to the docking system 112. For instance, thecontroller 1102 or a control system 1100 may receive a signal from theswitch 304 and display a signal or illuminate a light on a dashboard1112 of the vehicle indicating the connection.

A second wire or cable 306 is shown in FIG. 3A. This wire or cable 306may be coupled to a first actuator 334 as shown in FIG. 3B. A controlbutton 1108 located in the vehicle may be electrically coupled to theactuator 334 via the wire or cable 306. Alternatively, the controller1102 or control system 1100 may automatically communicate with theactuator 334 to trigger it between an extended and retracted position.The actuator 334 forms part of the second latching mechanism of thepresent disclosure.

When the sensor 304 detects that the wheelchair is engaged by thecoupler mechanism 218 and locking pin 224, it may send a signal to acontroller 1102 to automatically trigger the actuator 334.Alternatively, the signal may be displayed on a dashboard 1112 ordisplay screen 1110 in the cab of the vehicle, and the operator maymanually trigger the actuator 334. As the actuator 334 extends andretracts, the top portion 300 may move upwards or downwards relative tothe lower or bottom portion 302. In other words, the actuator 334 maycontrol the movement of the docking system 112 between its raisedposition 338 of FIG. 3B and its lowered position 308 of FIG. 3A.

The manner in which the docking system 112 moves between its raised andlowered positions will now be described. The docking system 112 mayinclude a front scissor assembly 310 on a front end thereof and a rearscissor assembly 312 on a rear side thereof. Moreover, there may be afront scissor assembly 310 and rear scissor assembly 312 on both theleft and right sides of the docking system 112. The front scissorassembly 310 and rear scissor assembly 312 may include a pair of legs.For example, each assembly may include a first leg 314 and a second leg316. The first leg 314 may be disposed outwardly of the second leg 316.Moreover, the first leg 314 may be coupled to an outside location of thetop portion 300 of the docking system 112 and an inside location of thebottom portion 302. The second leg 316 may be coupled at an insidelocation of the top and bottom portions of the docking system 112, asshown in FIG. 3B.

The first leg 314 and second leg 316 may be coupled at an approximatemidpoint along the length of each leg. In FIG. 3B, for example, thefirst leg 314 and second leg 316 may be pivotally coupled via aconnection pin 330 or fastener. The first leg 314 and second leg 316 cantherefore pivot relative to one another about an axis defined by theconnection pin 330. This is the only coupling point between the firstand second legs.

The first leg 314 may be fixedly coupled at one end thereof to thebottom portion 302 of the docking system 112 via a fastener 318. Thus,the first leg 314 cannot move laterally relative to the bottom portion302 at this location. At an opposite end, the first leg 314 may bemovably coupled to the top portion 300 via a pin 326. Here, the pin 326can move within a longitudinal slot 328 defined in the top portion 300of the docking system 112. Thus, as the actuator 334 extends andretracts, the first leg 314 remains fixed at one end to the bottomportion 302 via the fastener 318 but moves longitudinally in the slot328 at an opposite end thereof.

Similarly, the second leg 316 includes two ends. At a first end, thesecond leg 316 is fixedly coupled to the top portion 300 via a fastener326. At an opposite second end, the second leg 316 is movably coupled tothe bottom portion 302 via a pin 320. The pin 320 is able to movelongitudinally within a longitudinal slot 322 defined in the bottomportion 302.

The above-described first and second legs of the front scissor assembly310 is equally applicable to the front scissor assembly 310 on theopposite side of the docking system 112 as shown in FIG. 3B. Moreover,the rear scissor assembly 312 functions in the same manner. Thus, forsake of brevity, the manner in which the rear scissor assembly 312operates will not be described.

The rear scissor assembly 312 is also coupled to a cross member 332 asshown in FIG. 3B. In particular, the cross member 332 extends the widthof the docking system 112 and is coupled to the pins 320 and second leg316. Moreover, the cross member 332 may be coupled to the actuator 334via a connector 700 (FIG. 7 ). In FIG. 5A, for example, the connector700 is shown as a bolt 504 that couples a rod 502 of the actuator 334 tothe cross member 332. As the actuator 334 extends and retracts, thecross member 332 may move longitudinally. Since the cross member 332 iscoupled to the second legs 316, movement of the cross member 332 in alongitudinal direction 500 (FIG. 5 ) via the actuator 334 may in turninduce the second legs 316 to move longitudinally within thelongitudinal slots 322.

The second leg 316 of the rear scissor assembly 312 may be coupled tothe second leg 316 of the front scissor assembly 310 via a longitudinalmember 336. Thus, longitudinal movement of the second leg 316 of therear scissor assembly 312 is in turn translated into longitudinalmovement in the same direction of the second leg 316 of the frontscissor assembly 310. As a result, the docking system 112 is capable ofmoving between its raised position 338 and lowered position 308 viaactuation of the first actuator 334.

The bottom portion 302 of the docking system 112 may include a firstrecess 340 and a second recess 342 for receiving the connection pin 330of the front and rear scissor assemblies in the lowered position 308.

Once the docking system 112 is in its lowered position 308, it is betterable to maintain the wheelchair 100 from rocking or tilting as thevehicle is making a turn. The locking pin 224 provides a first latchingmechanism to connect the wheelchair 100 to the docking system 112, andthe actuation of the docking system 112 to its lowered positionfunctions as a second latching mechanism for holding the wheelchair 100more securely during vehicle operation.

While the first and second latching mechanisms are able to securelycouple the wheelchair 100 to the vehicle floor 108, there may be aninstance where it is desirable to manually release the latchingmechanisms. For example, if the vehicle is involved in an accident orthere is an emergency, it may be necessary to unlatch the chair from thefloor. Alternatively, if the vehicle loses electrical power, it may benecessary to manually release the wheelchair from the docking system112. To do so, there are two release systems in place for this.

In FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 , for example, a first of the release systems isdepicted. Here, a first release mechanism 506 is shown for releasing thelocking pin 224 and allowing the wheelchair to move away from thedocking system 112. Before describing this release mechanism 506,however, it is necessary to point out that in FIG. 6 that a secondactuator 600 is provided for moving the locking pin 224 between itsupward and downward positions. The second actuator 600 may be controlledby a controller 1102 such as the vehicle controller 1114 or any othercontroller. In one example, a controller 1102 for only controlling thedocking system 112 may be provided. In this instance, the controller1102 may be in communication with the vehicle controller 1114 and/or anyother controller of the vehicle (e.g., transmission controller 1118,engine controller 1116, etc.) over a communication link such as CAN,J-1939, etc.

The second actuator 600 may be coupled to a plate 604 as shown in FIG. 6. As the actuator 600 is actuated between an extended and retractedposition, it induces movement of the plate 604. As the plate 604 ismoved, it is coupled to the locking pin 224 via a pin 602 to move it ina downward position to compress a spring 512. The actuator 600 mayprovide sufficient force to the plate 604 to compress the spring 512 andmove the locking pin to a retracted position such as shown in FIG. 5A.As the actuator 600 returns to a normal position, the spring 512 maybias the locking pin 224 to its upright position of FIG. 5B. Thus,control of the second actuator 600 allows for releasing the locking pin224 when desired. Moreover, the locking pin 224 and pin 602 may move ina direction indicated by arrow 610 in FIG. 6 .

In some instances, a button or other control 1108 may be in the vehicleto allow the wheelchaired passenger or other individual to control theactuator 600. The button or control 1108 may be manually triggered,which sends a signal to a controller 1102 which in turn commands theactuator 600 to actuate between its extended and retracted positions. Asdescribed above, an alternative embodiment would be for the controller1102 to automatically detect a condition to release the locking pin 224.The controller 1102 may include logic, software, or an algorithm tooperate from for actuating the first and second actuators of the presentdisclosure.

The first release mechanism 506 may include a cable or cord 608 of whicha user may pull to retract the locking pin 224 from its latched positionof FIG. 5B. The cable or cord 608 may be coupled to a cable 508 as shownin FIG. 5A, and one end of the cable 508 may be coupled to the lockingpin 224 via a set screw 514 or other fastener. Thus, movement of thecable 508 induces the locking pin 224 to move downward and compress thespring 512.

The cable 508 passes through a ferrule 516 as shown in FIG. 5B. Abracket 510 is further coupled to the cable 508. The bracket 510 may besimilar to or the same as the plate 604. A ball 606 or other feature maybe coupled to the cord 608 and rests against the plate 604 as shown inFIG. 6 . As a user pulls on the cord 608, it in turn pulls the cable 508and locking pin 224 downwardly until the locking pin 224 is in theposition shown in FIG. 5A.

A sensor 518 may be provided for detecting a position of the locking pin224 and communicate this to a controller 1102 or display the position ona dashboard 1112 or other display 1110 in the vehicle. Thus, theoperator and/or wheelchaired passenger will know the position of thelocking pin 224 based on the detection made by the sensor 518.

The release mechanism 506 is useful to release the locking pin 224 andallow the wheelchair to be disengaged from the docking system 112. InFIGS. 7 and 8 , a second release mechanism 706 is shown for raising thedocking system 112 from its lowered position 308 to its raised position338. Here, the second release mechanism 706 may include a safety strapor cable 220 that is coupled to a plate 708 via a fastener 710.

A spring 344 may be coupled between the plate 708 and the bottom portion302 of the docking system 112. In particular, the spring 344 may includea first hook end 702 coupled to the bottom portion 302 and a second hookend 704 coupled to the plate 708.

The plate 708 may further be coupled to the docking system 112 via afirst connector 714. In addition, the plate 708 may include an L-shapedslot 716 defined therein. A pin 712 may slide or otherwise move withinthe slot 716. The pin 712 may be coupled to a rod 806 of the firstactuator 334 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 . As the pin 712 moves within theslot 716, the rod 806 may extend or retract.

For example, in FIG. 7 , the docking system 112 may be in its loweredposition 308. The spring 344 is in its free, extended or uncompressedposition 718. The pin 712 is located at a first end of the slot 716 andthe actuator rod 806 is in its retracted position. In FIG. 8 , however,the strap or cable 220 may be pulled to achieve a release configuration800 thereby causing the pin 712 to move within the slot 716 to anopposite end thereof. As it does, the spring 344 is extended alongdirection 802. Moreover, as the pin 712 moves to the opposite end of theslot 716, the pin 712 induces the rod 806 to extend along direction 804in FIG. 8 . In doing so, the first and second scissor assemblies mayraise the docking system 112 an amount equivalent to the length of theslot to relieve down pressure. Thus, in one example, the second releasemechanism 706 is capable of transferring the docking system 112 from itslowered position 308 to its raised position 338. Stated another way, aclamping force on the docking system 112 is in effect relieved. Incombination with the first release mechanism 506, the wheelchair 100 maybe manually disengaged and released from the docking system 112 asnecessary.

Referring to FIG. 11 , which has been intermittently alluded to in theabove description, a control system 1100 for controlling the dockingsystem 112 and the interaction between the docking system 112 and thewheelchair 100 is provided. The control system 1100 may include acontroller 1102 which includes a memory unit and processor. The memoryis capable of storing logic, algorithms, software, etc. for performingone or more tasks. The memory may further store information, collectdata, and receive information from other controllers such as a vehiclecontroller 1114, engine controller 1116, and transmission controller1118. The processor or processing unit may be capable of executing thelogic, algorithms, software, etc.

In one embodiment, the controller 1102 is a stand-alone controller forcontrolling the docking system 112. In another embodiment, thecontroller 1102 may be the vehicle controller 1114, the enginecontroller 1116, the transmission controller 1118, or any othercontroller found on a vehicle. Moreover, the controller 1102 may beremotely located from the vehicle and communicate with the dockingsystem over a wireless communication network such as Wi-Fi.

The controller 1102 may be in communication with a user control 1108which may be located in the vehicle. Alternatively, the user control1108 may be remote from the vehicle. In any event, a user such as thewheelchaired passenger or vehicle operator may send instructions to thecontroller 1102 by actuating the user control 1108.

In turn, the controller 1102 may communicate with the user by displayinga signal, data, information, instructions, etc. via a display 1110 ordashboard 1112. The display 1110 or dashboard 1112 may be located in thevehicle. The display 1110 may be a computer display. The signal may becommunicated by illuminating a light in the vehicle to alert the userthat the docking station 112 is engaged with the wheelchair 110 or viceversa. Other types of signals are also possible.

The controller 1102 may be in communication with the first actuator 334and second actuator 600 of the docking system 112. In this manner, thecontroller 1102 may command either or both actuators to extend orretract. This may be based on a user command via the user control 1108,or it may be part of the control logic, algorithms, software, etc.executed by the processor of the controller 1102.

The controller 1102 may receive signals from one or more sensors. Forexample, the sensor 518 may detect the position of the locking pin 224and communicate this position to the controller 1102. A second sensor1104 may detect a position of the first actuator 334 and/or secondactuator 600. For example, the controller 1102 may command the actuator334 to extend by a desired amount. The second sensor 1104 may detect howmuch the actuator 334 has extended and communicate the same to thecontroller 1102. In this way, the controller 1102 receives feedback fromthe sensor 1104 and can further adjust its commands to either actuator.

The control system 1100 may include a third sensor 1106 which may bepositioned on the docking system 112 and is able to detect an oncomingwheelchair 100. The third sensor 1106 may be a proximity sensor, HallEffect sensor, or any other type of sensor. The third sensor 1106 maydetect a height or clearance between a bracket 200 on the approachingwheelchair 100 and communicate the same to the controller 1102. In turn,the controller 1102 may actuate the first actuator to cause the dockingsystem 112 to move upwards or downwards based on the detected clearanceby the third sensor 1106. In doing so, the second sensor 1104 can detecthow far and in what direction the actuator 334 moves in order todetermine if the actuator 334 responded correctly based on theinstruction from the controller 1102. A fourth sensor (not shown) maydetect the height of the coupler mechanism 218 relative to the vehiclefloor 108 and communicate the same to the controller 1102. Thus, thecontroller 1102 is able to receive signals indicative of an approachingwheelchair 100, the desired height of the docking system 112 forreceiving the wheelchair 100, the actual height of the docking system112, and the responsiveness of the first actuator 334 for adjusting theheight of the docking system 112.

Additional control logic or algorithms may be performed by the controlsystem 1100 for docking the wheelchair 100 to the docking system 112.One or more controllers may execute the control logic or algorithms. Ina further embodiment, the wheelchair may include a controller ortransmitter for communicating with the control system 1100. In thismanner, the transmitter or controller on the wheelchair may alert thecontroller 1102 or third sensor 1106 of its approach.

Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13 , a different embodiment of awheelchair docking system 1200 is illustrated. For sake of brevity,features in the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13 that remain unchanged fromthe embodiments in FIGS. 1-11 include the same reference number. Forthis reason, only the features that have changed between embodimentswill be addressed.

In FIG. 12 , the wheelchair docking system 1200 may include a lowerprotective shroud 1202 and an upper protective shroud 1204. The lowerprotective shroud 1202 may be formed of a plastic material formed by anyknown process such as injection molding. The upper protective shroud1204 may be formed of sheet metal or similar material. The pair ofshrouds provide additional safety and aesthetic benefits to thewheelchair docking system 1200.

The docking system 1200 may also include a plurality of tetherassemblies for increased structural integrity and improvement. Forinstance, a rear tether assembly 1206 is depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13having a rear load tether strap 1208. The rear load tether strap 1208may be coupled at one end to a pin 1302 which is affixed to a mountingbracket 1300. The mounting bracket 1300 may be welded or otherwisecoupled to the lower portion 302 of the system 1200. In at least oneembodiment, the pin 1302 may pivot or rotate about an axis within thebracket 1300.

The rear load tether strap 1208 may be coupled at its opposite end tothe top portion 300 of the system. The rear tether assembly 1206 may beapproximately centrally located as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 . Moreover,the top portion 300 may be a cast material for improved structuralintegrity.

The wheelchair docking system 1200 may also include a pair of fronttether assemblies. A first front tether assembly 1210 may be located ata first front corner and a second front tether assembly 1212 may belocated at a second front corner. Each tether assembly may include atether strap similar to that of the rear tether assembly 1206. Forinstance, the first front tether assembly 1210 may include a tetherstrap 1304 and the second front tether assembly 1212 may include atether strap 1306. Each tether strap 1304, 1306 may be coupled at oneend to the lower portion 302 and at the opposite end to the top portion302.

The docking system 1200 may also include an upper and lower gussets. Thelower gusset 1308 is located at the front scissor assembly 310. Theupper gusset, which is not shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , is also located atthe front scissor assembly 310. Each gusset may be welded to the system.In particular, the lower gusset 1308 may be welded to the lower portion302, whereas the upper gusset may be welded to the top portion 300.

As also shown in FIG. 13 , a plurality of stud bolts may be used tofurther couple the wheelchair docking system 1200 to the tracks 212,214. As shown, a pair of stud bolts 1310 is shown at approximately eachfront corner of the system 1200 to add further structural integrity tothe overall system.

While exemplary embodiments incorporating the principles of the presentdisclosure have been disclosed herein, the present disclosure is notlimited to the disclosed embodiments. Instead, this application isintended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the disclosureusing its general principles. Further, this application is intended tocover such departures from the present disclosure as come within knownor customary practice in the art to which this disclosure pertains andwhich fall within the limits of the appended claims.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A docking system for coupling a wheelchair having acoupling device to a floor, the docking system comprising: a frameholding a coupler mechanism, the coupler mechanism being configured toengage with the coupling device; an actuator coupled to the couplermechanism, wherein the actuator is configured to move the couplermechanism relative to at least a portion of the frame between a loweredposition and a raised position; a controller programmed to receive asignal; and, responsive to receipt of the signal, trigger the actuatorto move the coupler mechanism toward the lowered position.
 22. Thedocking system of claim 21 further comprising a control button incommunication with the controller, the control button being configuredto generate the signal.
 23. The docking system of claim 21 furthercomprising a sensor configured to automatically generate the signal whenthe sensor detects that the coupler mechanism is engaged with thecoupling device.
 24. The docking system of claim 21, wherein the framehas an upper portion and a lower portion, the coupler mechanism beingdisposed on and moving with the upper portion between the loweredposition and the raised position.
 25. The docking system of claim 21,wherein the signal is indicative of the coupler mechanism being engagedwith the coupling device.
 26. The docking system of claim 21, whereinthe coupler mechanism is adapted to exert downward pressure on thewheelchair as the coupler mechanism moves toward the lowered position.27. The docking system of claim 21, wherein the coupler mechanism isadapted to generate a clamping force as the coupler mechanism movestoward the lowered position.
 28. The docking system of claim 21, whereinthe controller is programmed to trigger the actuator to move the couplermechanism to a fully lowered position upon receipt of the signal. 29.The method of claim 21 wherein the controller is further configured to:receive a height signal indicative of a height of the coupling device;and, based on the height signal, trigger the actuator to move thecoupler mechanism toward the raised position before receiving thecoupling device in engagement with the coupler mechanism, whereby thecoupler mechanism is moved to the height of the coupling device.
 30. Themethod of claim 29 further comprising a sensor configured toautomatically detect the height and generate the height signal.
 31. Amethod of using the docking system of claim 1 comprising the steps of:receiving the coupling device in engagement with the coupler mechanism;receiving the signal; triggering the actuator whereby the actuator movesthe coupler mechanism toward the lowered position upon receipt of thesignal.
 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the coupler mechanism exertsdownward pressure on the wheelchair as the coupler mechanism movestoward the lowered position.
 33. The method of claim 31, wherein thecoupler mechanism generates a clamping force as the coupler mechanismmoves toward the lowered position.
 34. The method of claim 31, whereinthe actuator moves the coupler mechanism to a fully lowered position.35. The method of claim 31 further comprising the step of locking thecoupling device in engagement with the coupler mechanism after receivingthe coupling device in engagement with the coupler mechanism.
 36. Themethod of claim 35, wherein the locking step is automatic.
 37. Themethod of claim 31, further comprising the step of automaticallygenerating the signal after receiving the coupling device in engagementwith the coupler mechanism.
 38. The method of claim 37, wherein thedocking system further comprises a sensor that generates the signal whenthe sensor detects that the coupler mechanism is engaged with thecoupling device.
 39. The method of claim 31 further comprising the stepsof: receiving a height signal indicative of a height of the couplingdevice; and, based on the height signal, triggering the actuator wherebythe actuator moves the coupler mechanism toward the raised positionbased before receiving the coupling device in engagement with thecoupler mechanism, whereby the coupler mechanism is moved to the heightof the coupling device.
 40. The method of claim 39 further comprisingthe step of automatically detecting the height.